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עברית
מרחק — meaning in English: distance
merkhak · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.
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distance
תחנה
takhana
לסגת
laseget
מחברי
mekhavrei
מרחק
merkhak
סוחר
sokher
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neutral
very common
Usage
Hebrew speakers commonly use the word מרחק (merkhak) in both everyday conversation and more formal settings. For instance, one might say, 'המרחק בין תל אביב לירושלים הוא 54 קילומטרים' (The distance between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem is 54 kilometers) when discussing travel plans. In a more sentimental context, people might reflect on emotional distance in relationships, saying, 'המרחק בינינו גדל' (The distance between us has grown).
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym is 'פָּעָמָה' (pa'ama), which can also mean 'distance,' but is often used in more specific contexts, like in the phrase regarding 'a distance in time.' Use מרחק when discussing general physical or emotional separations, as it is more versatile.
Culture
The word מרחק (merkhak) stems from the root רחק (rakhak), which means 'to distance' or 'to move away'. In Israeli culture, the concept of distance extends beyond physical space to encompass emotional and social distances, reflecting the values of closeness and community often celebrated in Hebrew literature and songs. A famous example is the Israeli song 'מרחקים' (Merhakim), which poetically explores the theme of distance in love.
FAQ
